What is the first step in managing an infected wound?

• A. Apply a tight dressing
• B. Incise and drain the wound
• C. Irrigate the wound and start antibiotics
• D. Monitor for signs of systemic infection

Answer: (C)

The first step in managing an infected wound involves irrigation of the wound and initiation of antibiotics. Irrigation is crucial because it helps to remove debris, bacteria, and necrotic tissue, which can impede healing and allow the infection to persist. By flushing out the wound, it reduces the bacterial load and provides a cleaner environment for healing.

Starting antibiotics is also vital, especially if there are signs of systemic infection or if the wound is large, deep, or heavily contaminated. Antibiotics help to control the infection and prevent further complications.

While incision and drainage are often necessary for abscesses or larger collections of pus, it is typically not the very first step unless there is a significant collection that needs immediate intervention. Applying a tight dressing may also impede proper wound assessment and irrigation, and monitoring for signs of systemic infection is important but usually follows initial management steps. Therefore, irrigation and antibiotic treatment provide a critical foundation in the proper management of infected wounds.